The Cypriot Government is sending the message that there is a strong incentive for the Turkish Cypriots to work towards a solution of the Cyprus problem, and this is enhanced by the prospects of hydrocarbons reserves in Cyprus` exclusive economic zone, Acting Government Spokesman Christos Christophides said on Friday.

He added that President of the Republic Demetris Christofias, addressing the UN General Assembly, deplored Turkey’s threats and attitude, and described the reality at the talks for a Cyprus settlement, inter alia, making a general reference to the benefits the Turkish Cypriots would reap if hydrocarbons were found in Cyprus` exclusive economic zone.

Christophides furthermore dismissed the argument that on the one hand the hydrocarbons were an incentive for a settlement and on the other hand the Greek Cypriot side was removing this incentive.

“We want to send the message that there is a strong incentive for the Turkish Cypriots, which is enhanced by the finding of hydrocarbons, for a solution of the Cyprus problem,“ he said, adding that there are some thoughts about how the Turkish Cypriots could benefit, which would be announced after political decisions are taken.

Furthermore, Christophides said that President Christofias and the Government were monitoring developments very closely, in the light of Turkish threats against Cyprus, and that there was no reason to worry.

Commenting on Turkish press reports, which were reproduced in the local press, Christophides said that “any scenarios regarding an aggressive stance on behalf of the National Guard, presented in the Turkish and Turkish Cypriot press, lack seriousness.“
He added that the Greek Cypriot side was moving on a political level to avoid any tension and that these moves had a positive outcome, as proven by remarks by powerful countries, such as the USA and Russia, as well as the EU.